Heated campaign is over in Pender Co.; Smith is victorious

PENDER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – The race for Pender County Sheriff got heated over internet postings and some could say it was the nastiest race in the 2010 Primary Election.

There were claims that campaign signs were being stolen, harassment claims, and even a restraining order put on one of the incumbent's main supporters.

It was a battle between incumbent Carson Smith and Adam Dillon all the way, but on election night it was easy to see who would come out on top.

Smith had overwhelming support winning 82% of the votes. As the announcement was made, relief fell over the room that the campaign drama was finally over.

Smith says the negativity leading up to this race will make him more prepared for the elections in November. And while he knows things are not perfect in Pender County he said he will continue to look at things to tweak to make things better.

Despite the results Tuesday night, Dillon says he will continue to fight for the programs that he is trying to implement for the good of the county.